From 1 October 2026, free COVID-19 vaccines in Australia are no longer available to everyone. They are now part of the National Immunisation Program (NIP) and are free only for people at highest risk of severe illness. If you are not sure whether you are eligible, call Stanmore Pharmacy on (02) 9550 0906 and our pharmacists can check with you.
Below is a plain guide to what changed, who can still get a free COVID-19 vaccine, and what to bring when you come in.
What changed on 1 October 2026?
During the pandemic, COVID-19 vaccines were free for everyone under a separate national program. From 1 October 2026, that program has been replaced. COVID-19 vaccines are now funded through the National Immunisation Program, the same program that covers other free vaccines in Australia.
The Australian Government says the change reflects that COVID-19 is now common in the community, and the free program is now focused on the people most at risk.
Who can get a free COVID-19 vaccine?
According to the Australian Government Department of Health, free COVID-19 vaccines are available from 1 October 2026 for:
- All adults aged 75 and over: two doses a year, about six months apart.
- Adults aged 65 to 74: one dose a year.
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 to 74: one dose a year.
- Adults aged 18 to 64 with severe immunocompromise: one dose a year.
To get a free vaccine at a pharmacy, you also need to be eligible for Medicare.
What if I am not eligible?
If you are not in one of the groups above, the vaccine is not free under the NIP. The Australian Government says people who are not eligible can choose to buy the vaccine privately after talking it through with a healthcare provider.
If you are unsure which group you fall into, especially if you have a medical condition, speak to your GP or call us and we can talk it through.
Can I get my COVID-19 vaccine at Stanmore Pharmacy?
Yes. Our pharmacists give COVID-19 vaccinations at Shop 12/140 Percival Road, Stanmore NSW 2048, directly opposite Stanmore Station. Call us on (02) 9550 0906 before coming in so we can check your eligibility and arrange a time.
You can also see our vaccination page for more on the vaccinations we offer, including flu vaccinations.
What should I bring?
- Your Medicare card
- Photo identification
- Your immunisation history statement if you have it, so we can see when your last COVID-19 dose was
You can download your immunisation history statement through your Medicare online account or the Express Plus Medicare app.
Frequently asked questions
Are COVID-19 vaccines still free for everyone?
No. From 1 October 2026, free COVID-19 vaccines are only available to people at highest risk of severe illness under the National Immunisation Program.
I am 70. How many free doses can I get?
Adults aged 65 to 74 can get one free dose a year. Adults aged 75 and over can get two free doses a year, about six months apart.
I am under 65. Can I get a free COVID-19 vaccine?
Only if you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person aged 50 to 74, or an adult aged 18 to 64 with severe immunocompromise. Otherwise, the vaccine is not free under the NIP.
Do I need Medicare to get a free vaccine at a pharmacy?
Yes. To get a free COVID-19 vaccine at a pharmacy, you need to be eligible for Medicare and be in one of the eligible groups.
How do I book at Stanmore Pharmacy?
Call us on (02) 9550 0906. We will check your eligibility and arrange a time with you.
Stanmore Pharmacy is at Shop 12/140 Percival Road, Stanmore NSW 2048, directly opposite Stanmore Station. Call (02) 9550 0906 to check your eligibility for a free COVID-19 vaccine. Our pharmacy services page lists everything else we offer.
This article is general information only and is not personal medical advice. Eligibility details are based on Australian Government information current at 3 October 2026. Speak with your pharmacist or GP about your own circumstances.